Midi Controller Kybd Recommendations

Mutiny in Jonestown · Mon Apr 27, 2015 10:44 pm

I'm looking to build a synth system around my new MS20 desktop running through several multi-effects rack processors to mangle the sound (TC Fireworx, TC-M350, Looperlative LP-1).

I'm looking for recommendations on the best MIDI Controller Kybd to run the whole thing. Here's what my requirements are:

1) At least 49 full size, synth feel/non-weighted keys with aftertouch
2) Extra widgets like sliders, buttons, rotary dials, pads, etc that I can assign midi CC#'s to
3) 5pin MIDI Out rather than USB MIDI (unless it's easy to go from a USB midi out interface to 5pin cable format...I've never tried that)

This is NOT going to be a computer based system so the ability to sync in with DAW's and the like means nothing to me. I need a controller that has the ability to send out MIDI CC#'s as flexibly as possible. So far, everything I've looked at (M-Audio & Novation) is really focused on integrating with DAW's and what I'm looking for is really the best MIDI focused/non computer based solution. Also, I have tendonitis so I need to have a very light-touch kybd...

Any suggestions? Thanks!

Steinberger · Post by **Steinberger** » Mon Apr 27, 2015 10:59 pm

Taktile 49 MIDI Controller is the grail you seek.

Mutiny in Jonestown · Mon Apr 27, 2015 11:58 pm

Steinberger wrote:Taktile 49 MIDI Controller is the grail you seek.

Very promising. Just read the manual, perfect MIDI implementation that I want; unfortunately, no aftertouch and a semi-weighted kybd so no-go

Steinberger · Post by **Steinberger** » Tue Apr 28, 2015 12:24 am

I and others argue that the semi-weighted claim on the manufacturers specs is far from the truth. It is a synth feel and very light. If you've played a Q49 controller it is very similar. Think 80's Yamaha DX7 or Korg MS2000 and you'll get the idea.

No aftertouch but I'm also not sure how you intend to implement it on the MS-20M. There are many alternatives to it on this controller alone (mod wheel, knob, fader and kaoss pad CC assignment) that might be more tendon friendly.

Mutiny in Jonestown · Post by **Mutiny in Jonestown** » Tue Apr 28, 2015 4:12 am

Steinberger wrote:I and others argue that the semi-weighted claim on the manufacturers specs is far from the truth. It is a synth feel and very light. If you've played a Q49 controller it is very similar. Think 80's Yamaha DX7 or Korg MS2000 and you'll get the idea.

No aftertouch but I'm also not sure how you intend to implement it on the MS-20M. There are many alternatives to it on this controller alone (mod wheel, knob, fader and kaoss pad CC assignment) that might be more tendon friendly.

The aftertouch was actually so I could have the option of including my Radias as well as the MS20 & MS2000 in this system. I will admit the kaoss pad driving some CC's is very intriguing! Re: the semi-weighted keys, after some research, I agree with your assessment. I love my Motif XF7 and it's very comfortable for me...I looked it up and it's also considered to be semi-weighted so no problem there

Mutiny in Jonestown · Tue Apr 28, 2015 11:20 pm

Just ordered the Korg taktile 49 this morning from Sweetwater. Thanks for the recommendation Steinberger